Description
Disulfiram is an inhibitor of aldehyde dehydrogenase that is clinically used to treat chronic alcohol dependence. Disulfiram prevents complete metabolism of alcohol, allowing acetaldehyde to build up. Disulfiram also exhibits anticancer and anti-parasitic activities. This compound inhibits the 26S proteasome, activating caspases 3 and 7 and inducing apoptosis in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), ovarian cancer, and breast cancer cells. Disulfiram also inhibits MGMT, potentially enhancing the efficacy of other co-administered chemotherapeutics. Additionally, disulfiram inhibits the growth of protozoans Trichomonas and Tritrichomonas.